How to Prepare a Romantic Valentine's Dinner
Surprise Your Partner with a Special Night
Jan 12, 2009
Is this the year you want to surprise your partner with a wonderfully romantic Valentine's Day dinner? If so, it's time to start planning. You’ll need to think of several things, and it's best to make a list.
The Valentine's Dinner
This, of course, is what the surprise will focus around; however, creating just the right mood is just as important. You’ll need to think of the dishes you want to serve. Make a list of the ingredients you’ll need. Nothing is worse than getting halfway through preparing dinner, only to realize a main ingredient is no where to be found in the house. Do you have an idea of what to make? If not, maybe some of these suggestions will be helpful.
Spaghetti and Meatballs
While this may not seem like the best romantic dinner, remember the cartoon movie Lady and the Tramp! When paired with a wonderful salad, breadsticks, and a nice bottle of red wine, this dinner is certainly one to consider.
Veal Marsala
This dinner is easy to make and has a wonderful flavor. If veal is not your favorite, it can also be prepared with lean sirloin steak or chicken. Seasoned green beans are a nice addition.
Surf and Turf
A steak and lobster tail may seem difficult, but in all actuality, it's not. Marinate your steak for an hour or so before you put it on the grill or under the broiler. The lobster tails are easy to cook, but you may want to buy them already prepared. Add a salad and baked potato to top off the dinner.
Prepare as much of the food ahead of time as you can. This includes chopping vegetables for the salad, precooking pasta, and any other time-consuming kitchen matter you can think of. This will allow you to concentrate on the cooking at hand, instead of trying to accomplish everything while you should be paying attention to the stove.
Valentine's Day Chocolates
A Valentine's Day dinner would not be complete without dessert. A simple chocolate cake, chocolate cream pie, or even a chocolate torte will make your partner's mouth water. If you think time will be an issue, you may want to pick up dessert from you favorite bakery.
Setting the Mood on Valentine's Day
Now it's time to set the mood for romance. If your partner will be arriving straight from work, make sure the house is clean so she doesn’t feel the need to do it. Find a pretty tablecloth, maybe in red or white. Don't forget to add the flowers. A nice vase will suffice, if the flowers you choose are not boxed. A single rose across the plate is a nice alternative as well.
Candles are also a terrific way to create a romantic atmosphere. Light them only right before your partner arrives, so the wax does not drip, if you are using tapers. The more candles the better.
Romantic music of your choice will complete the romantic setting. If you will be giving a gift or a card, be sure you have purchased it ahead of time, wrapped it, and signed the card. You might consider a pretty card that requests her presence for an evening of good food, drink, and company.
Whatever you decide, only you know what is romantic between you and your partner. Put some thought into it, and she is sure to love it, no matter how the food turns out!
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